Gynecology Exams

Gynecology tests and exams at a glance

  • Gynecology exams and testing are routine checks on the general health and development of female patients’ reproductive system and organs.
  • Common examinations performed by gynecologists include annual wellness exams, Pap smears and ultrasounds.
  • The benefit of regular gynecology examinations is the specialist’s ability to identify gynecologic health problems and treat them. Patients and their doctor talk about periods, sex, family planning, menopause and overall health concerns during exams.

Benefits of regular gynecology examinations

A woman will likely have her first gynecology appointment when she is in her late teens or early 20s and she should continue to see a gynecologist regularly throughout her life. We suggest that all women receive regular gynecology exams by a healthcare provider specifically trained in female reproductive health.

Gynecologists can diagnose conditions and abnormalities with a woman’s reproductive system, as well as check for cervical or vaginal cancer and abnormal growths. A gynecologist will evaluate the health of a woman’s breasts, pelvis, vagina, cervix, uterus and rectum during exams. Women often use this time with their gynecologist to discuss topics such as birth control, family planning and sexual health.

What are the different gynecology examinations?

Different gynecology examinations are appropriate depending on a patient’s age and her diagnosed gynecological conditions. These are the gynecology exams that OB-GYNs at CU Anschutz Women's Health clinics offer:

  • Annual exam
  • Breast exam
  • Pap smear
  • Ultrasound
  • Pelvic exam
  • Colposcopy
  • Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).

Annual Gynecological Exams

at CU Anschutz Women’s Health Clinics

Our women’s health clinics provide comprehensive annual gynecological exams to help detect and prevent reproductive health issues early. These exams include screenings for cervical dysplasia, menstrual disorders, and breast health, while offering time to discuss family planning, menopause, pelvic pain, and other concerns with your preferred OB-GYN provider.
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Colposcopy

A gynecologist will do a colposcopy test if a woman has abnormal cells found on a Pap smear. The procedure involves an instrument called a colposcope, which is a microscope on a stand. The doctor gently inserts a speculum into the patient’s vagina and then examines the cervix with the microscope.

The colposcope has a magnifying lens and light that allow the doctor to see a magnified image of the cervix and vaginal tissue. The doctor will be looking for abnormalities in the color structure and pattern of the area.

Sometimes the doctor will perform a cervical biopsy by taking a small sample of the tissue for further testing in a laboratory. Abnormal cells can be referred to as precancerous cells, though they may not yet be cervical cancer.

Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)

A loop electrosurgical excision procedure can be done when abnormal cells are found during a Pap smear test. Gynecologists perform LEEP to remove tissue and test for abnormal cells.

LEEP uses a thin wire loop heated by an electric current to remove a small piece of the tissue containing the abnormal cells. The layer of tissue that was removed will be sent to a laboratory for further testing.

Another benefit of LEEP is that it can be used to remove abnormal cells so that healthy cells can grow in their place. LEEP can be used in both diagnosing and treating polyps, genital warts and diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure. The procedure for LEEP begins with a colposcopy because the gynecologist uses a colposcope to view the cervix while passing the LEEP wire along the area of concern.

Pap Smear

Essential Screening for Cervical Cancer Prevention

A Pap smear is a simple, effective test that detects early changes in cervical cells, helping prevent cervical cancer. Recommended for women ages 21 to 65, Pap tests should be part of routine health care. Learn when to schedule your Pap smear, what to expect during the procedure, and what abnormal results mean.
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Pelvic Exam

What to Expect and Why It’s Important

A pelvic exam is a quick, routine procedure that helps detect issues like infections, fibroids, and early-stage cancers. Recommended for adult women, this exam is often paired with a Pap smear and provides an opportunity to discuss overall health with your provider. Learn what happens during the exam, when to schedule one, and how to prepare for a comfortable experience.
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Ultrasound

Safe, Accurate Imaging for Women’s Health

Our OB-GYN ultrasound services provide real-time, painless imaging to monitor pregnancy and diagnose gynecologic conditions such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, and abnormal bleeding. Performed by certified sonographers, these ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic organs, helping physicians deliver accurate and timely care.
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CU Anschutz Women's Health

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